A Brief Explanation of Cubic Yard Calculations

Posted on November 19, 2021 by bafcorp20

Imagine a box that is 1 yard high, 1 yard wide, and 1 yard deep. Now imagine that the space inside is filled with liquid. Right now, you are imagining the exact measurement of one cubic yard, it is the volume. Essentially, you can remember a cubic yard as a cube that measures 1 yard in all directions. If you are preparing for commercial construction work, such as carpentry, masonry, or general remodeling, it is important to understand cubic yard calculations.

Continue reading to learn how to measure cubic yards accurately, as well as some common materials typically measured using this system.

Indianapolis Commercial Architects and Builders 317-253-0531

Facts About Cubic Yard Measurements

A cubic yard is the volume of space or mass that fits inside a space that measures one yard wide, by one yard deep, by one yard high. Cubic yards are used frequently to measure all sorts of materials. Some of the most common materials and projects measured in cubic yards include concrete, mulch, soil, compost, gardens, patios, pools, parking lots, and more.

How to Measure in Cubic Yards

In order to properly measure your needed materials in cubic yards, all dimensions must be converted into the same measurements first. Here are the basic increments you need to know to do this correctly:

▷ 1 Cubic Yard = 27 Cubic Feet (3’ x 3’ x 3’)
▷ 1 Cubic Yard = 46,656 Cubic Inches (36” x 36” x 36”)

Here’s an Example:

As an example of how to apply this math, imagine that you are on the market for enough concrete to fill a slab that is 6 inches thick, 12 feet long, and 12 feet wide. In order to calculate how much concrete mix you will need, you must first convert everything to a common dimension.

In this case, feet would work best. This means that 6 inches would convert to ½ a foot, or 0.5 feet, and the rest would stay the same. Then you would simply multiply all three values together to find the number of cubic feet, like this:

0.5 x 12 x 12 = 72 Cubic Feet

Continue by dividing the answer to the above equation (72 cu. ft.) by the number of cubic feet in a cubic yard (27 feet) to get the right amount of material you need in cubic yards, like this:

72 ÷ 27 = 2.67 Cubic Yards

So, you will need 2.67 Cubic Yards of concrete to fill your slab.

Hire a Commercial Construction Company for Precision Work

When it comes to remodeling your business, it is important to ensure that you are using precise specifications and top-quality materials. In order to achieve this level of superiority in the building and construction industry, it is wise to hire an Indiana commercial construction contractor before you even get started with planning.

Specialized commercial general contracting teams can provide space planning and permitting services, as well as preconstruction, designing, building, and even post-occupancy facility maintenance service. You can get an all-in-one package when you choose the right commercial construction company to hire.

Would you rather skip the hassle of searching for the best commercial construction company to navigate your business remodeling work? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We specialize in healthcare centers, offices and commercial use buildings, warehouses, and multi-housing complexes.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services — Contact Us Today 317-253-0531

FAQS About Planning a Commercial Construction Project

Posted on September 21, 2021 by bafcorp20

Planning a commercial construction project requires astute focus, commitment, and expertise. But when it comes to your role as a business owner, all you have to do is find a reputable commercial contracting company to work with. They can navigate all elements and aspects of your commercial build, ensuring that every specification is met with the highest level of craftsmanship and accuracy, while also keeping your business’s overall culture and vision alive.

But before you find an Indiana commercial construction company that can deliver all of these building objectives, you’ll surely be asking yourself, “where do I begin?” If this sounds like your inner dialogue, you are in the right spot.

Continue reading to review some frequently asked questions about planning a commercial construction project, including how to get your plans in motion before the year end.

Indianapolis Commercial Construction Company 317-253-0531

Frequently Asked Questions – Commercial Construction Planning

How Do Set My Construction Plan in Motion?

How you begin your construction plan will depend on where you are in the commercial construction process. Do you already have a space procured? Are you renovating an existing space that you currently lease or own? Are you looking to lease a new location? Are you interested in renovating a dilapidated building or distressed commercial asset? Have you thought about converting vacant mall space?

How and where you begin planning your construction also depends on the type of industry you are in, the extent of construction required for the project, and several other important industry variables. For this reason, it is important to consult with an experienced Indiana commercial construction company for professional advice and guidance on setting your commercial construction plan in motion.

You also want to develop an accurate budget for your commercial construction project. Once you have a budget in mind, it’ll help you allocate necessary funds and expenses for the planning, building, and post-occupancy facility maintenance phases. This is another way to help navigate the starting point of your commercial construction plan.

Can I Keep My Business Open While I Renovate?

Contrary to what your anxiety may be telling you, it is very possible to keep your business doors open during a commercial renovation or remodel. There are certain steps you can take to ensure a streamlined and hassle-free construction process for both clients and staff. Taking these steps can also protect guests and employees from any potential accidents or injuries when keeping your business open during a remodel.

Begin by developing a phasing plan before any construction is scheduled. Develop literature that clearly informs both staff and customers of the upcoming construction, including an explanation of how the business will still operate while the construction is underway.

You also need to work with your Indianapolis Indiana commercial construction contractor to schedule in transition days for both work and business, while also developing a strategy that allows the doors to remain open while construction is taking place. Most often, your contractors will work in sections so that the entire space is not cut off from construction at once.

How Do I Know Which Commercial General Contractor to Choose?

Not all general contractors are alike, especially when it comes to commercial construction. There are specific qualities to look for in a commercial construction company. Not only should they be extensively experienced in the commercial construction and building industry, but they should also have a large number of positive client reviews and testimonials.

A reputable Indiana commercial general contracting company should also be able to show you portfolios of their previous jobs and provide clear and accurate bids. Trust word-of-mouth and online testimonials to narrow down your list of commercial construction contractors. Then interview each one to gauge their level of professionalism and determine if they are good fit for your particular type of builder remodel.

Are you ready to skip the hassle of finding the right commercial contractor and go straight to the most trusted source in central Indiana? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial general contracting services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout the state.

You Should Also Read:

What is the Difference Between Commercial Contractor Estimates and Bids?
Why You Should Start Planning Your Commercial Remodel Right Now
The Importance of a Commercial Construction Schedule

Why Choose the BAF Corp Design Build Approach

Posted on March 29, 2021 by bafcorp20

Our Indianapolis commercial general contracting company is an industry leader in design build construction services. We visualize the end result at the start of the project. Continue below to learn why you should choose us as your design build commercial construction management team, and what you can expect from our locally-esteemed DB approach.

COMMERCIAL DESIGN BUILD (DB) A smarter and more innovative way to bring your vision to live.

We Use a Concentrated Focus From Start to Finish

Here at BAF Corporation, our unified and collective design build (DB) approach is what ensures the highest level of excellence and quality, no matter the size or scope of your commercial construction project. Having a professional general contracting team start on your commercial build early on is an effective and lucrative way to render outstanding results. Never underestimate the value of preconstruction design build services.

Our Integrated Preconstruction and DB Solutions Set Your Business Up for Success Now and in the Long Run

When it comes to planning a successful commercial construction project, the preconstruction phase is the first phase of the build that matters. During the preconstruction phase, you will collaborate with our commercial general contractors to set a budget, plan a schedule, and decide on all procurement needs. Haven’t found a lot or space yet? We can help with space planning and permitting, and even post-occupancy maintenance for all your building maintenance and service needs following the completion of your build. Our expert teams of architects, designers, and construction managers can deliver improved technology, enhanced energy efficiency, and much more, all with our innovative design build preconstruction services in Indianapolis, Indiana.

We Customize Our Design Build Services to Your Unique Business Objectives

Our design build construction services are not applied as templates for our clients. We customize every project down to the finest specification, which allows us to meet and exceed your expectations in the end. From budget estimating and management to market research, labor analysis, constructability reviews, materials procurement, 3-d modeling, and much more, we are your leaders in commercial construction design build, and you can trust us to deliver the exact vision you have for your business.

A Family Operated Business You Can Trust

Our family-owned and operated Indianapolis IN commercial construction company was founded on the core values of integrity and quality, which shows through in our proven track record. When you hire BAF Corporation, you can feel confident knowing your project is in the hands of honest, organized, and skilled professionals committed to bringing your vision to life. We are on your team just as much as you are on ours. You can trust that we design and build facilities that will exceed your objectives and drive your business greater value.

Would you like to schedule a bid for Indianapolis design build commercial construction services? Contact us at 317-253-0531 to speak with a licensed and insured commercial general contractor within our design build department, today. We serve clients in Indianapolis and all throughout Central Indiana.

You Should Also Read:

5 Design Tips to Improve the Success of Your Retail Store
Touch-Free Design Suggestions for Commercial Buildings and Businesses
The 6 Phases of a Design Build Construction Project

The Importance of a Commercial Construction Schedule

Posted on February 16, 2021 by bafcorp20

Does your commercial property need some renovating? Or perhaps you are venturing out into a new construction commercial real estate build? Either way and anywhere in between, when it comes to commercial construction, time is money. For this reason, commercial construction project scheduling is a vital element of the entire process. Of course, with any type of construction or remodeling work, unanticipated and unforeseeable delays are bound to happen. But with a streamlined, steadfast commercial construction project schedule, you will reap the full benefits of what the process is meant to offer you and your overall business objectives.

Continue reading to learn exactly why your commercial construction schedule matters so much, and how to ensure yours is planned and executed precisely.

Indiana Commercial Construction 317-253-0531

Staying On Time Means Staying in Budget

When a commercial construction project timeline is delayed and extended, you as the proprietor will likely be faced with additional, unexpected costs. Effective construction schedule planning can protect your project from suffering such costly delays and setbacks. In fact, proper scheduling is the key to a successful commercial construction project.

With a properly planned and well-organized commercial construction schedule, you can better guarantee optimal management of all included elements of the project, including procurement, equipment, assets, materials, labor, hours, and more. Furthermore, it allows you and your commercial general contracting company to better perform financial forecasting evaluations.

Proper Construction Scheduling Benefits:

► Organization – Everyone knows what to do, what to expect, and where to go. Details abate risk, which mitigates setbacks and additional costs.

► Preparation – Having a set plan in place allows you to prepare your resources effectively, which also impacts the overall success of the project.

► Safety and Communication – A well-planned and implemented construction schedule promotes optimal safety by notifying all persons of designated work zones, possible hazards, detours, and warnings.

Factors That Can Cause Timeline Setbacks

With any type of construction project, there are certain circumstances that are out of anyone’s control, and will cause delays in the schedule. Things like inclement weather and city permitting can impact schedules unexpectedly. Also, the bigger the size and scope of the commercial construction project, the more likely such setbacks are to take place.

A licensed and experienced commercial construction company has the skills, knowledge, and resources to ensure a streamlined and efficient timeline for your building or remodeling needs.

Indiana Commercial Construction Contractors You Can Trust to Be On Time

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 to learn about our superior commercial construction services we offer at our reputable and longstanding Indiana commercial general contracting company. We serve all of Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. Our expert general contracting teams ensure all aspects of your commercial construction and post-occupancy business objectives are met in an ordered fashion, on time, and within budget. Contact us today to get started with a quick bid.

Tips for Keeping Your Business Open During a Remodel

Posted on February 8, 2021 by bafcorp20

It is not cheap to fund a commercial renovation or remodeling project. So, when it comes to the point when you need to move forward with one, it is wise to consider remaining open for operation during the process. This will allow you to continue bringing in revenue, while also knocking out a much-needed update or remodel. Of course, not all business owners have the option of staying open when proceeding with a commercial renovation, such as restaurants, but in many circumstances, it is quite possible with the right elements in place.

If you think you might want to stay open during commercial remodel, there are some important factors to consider, and few helpful pointers that will ensure a smooth and successful process. Continue below to review some of the top-recommended tips and considerations you should know as a business owner or proprietor.

Commercial Construction Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531 — Commercial Remodeling Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531

Remodeling While Staying Open for Business

When a business or office stays open and operational during a renovation, there are certainly some challenges that might arise, and a few expected inconveniences. However, this does not mean that it is impossible to do so successfully, all while accommodating your guest’s and staff’s safety and comfort. This is also important to your staff’s productivity and your operation’s efficiency. An experienced commercial construction company will know exactly how to meet these objectives, as well as all other detailed specifications and overall business objectives.

Your First Step is Budget Analysis

Your first step to determining whether or not you should keep your business operating as usual during an upcoming commercial renovation is to perform a budget analysis report. This report will provide you with data that analyzes the cost-benefit of staying open and compares it with the scenario of temporarily closing down, thus giving you insight on the rationality of moving forward one way or the other.

Safety is Key

Safety is another critical aspect of staying open during a commercial remodel. Consider posting maps to show which areas are zoned for construction, and giving your staff safety gear if necessary. Always have an emergency plan in place in the case of an injury or accident, and be sure your vendors have a copy of the renovation schedule to protect them and your remodel work. You can also appoint a staff member to sweep and tidy up the work areas every hour.

Additional Factors to Think About

If you are leaning toward staying open during your commercial remodel, there are some important factors you should consider first, as mentioned before. Primary factors that you must address head on before getting started with any construction include adjusting your business hours, organizing a clear line of staff and customer communication, designating construction zones, construction containment efforts, and most importantly, safety.

► Business Hours – Think about how your business hours might impact the quality and efficiency of your commercial remodel, and how you might be able to make certain adjustments to accommodate the construction work, staff, and guests. Perhaps schedule the construction overnight, during off business hours, or during slow times of business, such as early morning, mid-day, or late afternoon.

► Communicating – It is critical to maintain a clear and open line of communication regarding all construction work to both staff and guests. Consider making memos, sending emails, posting signs, and more so that everyone is up to date on the upcoming work. Ask for feedback, take suggestions, and ensure that every effort has been made to minimize disruption.

► Construction Zones – Think about how you will safely separate the construction areas from your business’s operating areas. You will want to restrict access to all construction zones, plus consider placing noise barriers and debris barricades to limit sound and health disruption.

► Debris Containment – There is a lot of dust, debris, and chemicals used in the commercial renovation process, which can travel into the operational areas of your business during construction. To avoid healthy and safety hazards, including poor air quality, you will need to consider how you will mitigate such particulates during construction. Containment barriers work well, as does pressurizing rooms, modifying the HVAC systems, and installing fans to air out paint and other chemicals.

Licensed Commercial Remodeling Construction Services in Central Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractor teams deliver a streamlined process that meets all defined engineering and design specifications, procurement, schedules, and budgets. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Factors to Consider Before Signing a Commercial Office Lease

Posted on March 17, 2020 by bafcorp20

Moving into a new commercial space is a serious undertaking. There are several complex steps to complete in order to get your business back to fully-operating at peak performance following a relocation. But first you must sign a new lease. Before you do so, there are various considerations to apply to your decision in order to protect yourself from entering into a contract you later regret.

Continue reading to learn which factors should be at the forefront of your mind when discussing a new commercial real estate lease prior to signing.

Space Planning and Tenant Improvements 317-253-0531

General Commercial Lease Inquiries

With all new commercial real estate leases, there are basic questions that you must ask. These answers will give you the foundation of knowledge you need to decide whether or not to move forward with the lease agreement. Such questions include the following:

What is the Type of Lease Offered? There are different types of lease agreements for commercial properties, including net leases, gross leases, triple nets, and absolute triple nets.

What are the Terms and Conditions? You must read through all terms and conditions, and derive questions pertinent to your overall objectives and limitations.

Is the Lease Negotiable? Most often, lease agreements are flexible, and landlords will negotiate certain elements in the lease’s terms and conditions.

Will Rent Increase? Rent escalation is common in commercial real estate, like stepped increases that periodically increase in fixed amounts, or increases tied to Consumer Price Index.

Can You Sublease? Long-term leases might contain a subleasing and assignment clause that allows you to lease out all or a portion of your space to another tenant in the future.

Comprehensive Facility Touring

Always be sure to tour the facility as thoroughly as possible before signing a lease. You want your potential commercial space to have an inviting and functional atmosphere. When taking your tours, be sure to focus your attention on cleanliness, attractiveness, curb appeal, practicality, degree of remodeling or renovation needed, and amenities available, like parking, cafeterias, bathrooms, break rooms, lobbies, and more.

Neighboring Properties

Before entering in a legal contract that binds you to a commercial office space, it is wise to first check out your future neighbors. Consider the local businesses and buildings surrounding your potential space, including the actual proprietors and contemporaries you will likely encounter on a regular basis. This could easily thwart your interest in a new commercial space. For instance, if your business is a Zen spa, you wouldn’t want to lease a space directly below a dance studio or next door to a drum store.

Renewal Processes

It is wise to ask about the lease renewal process before making any agreements. Inquire about the terms and conditions of renewing or terminating the lease. In some cases, a tenant is required to notify the landlord within a certain time period that they wish to remain in a lease, while others do not. Communication guidelines and requirements for commercial leases vary from landlord to landlord. So, always be sure you fully understand your role when it comes time to renew or terminate your commercial lease.

Leasehold Improvements and Maintenance

Another important topic of discussion to cover prior to signing a new commercial lease are leasehold improvements. This includes facility maintenance. Questions to ask include, “Are you allowed to modify the space to meet your business’s needs?”, “Is the landlord willing to make tenant improvements before you move in?”, “Is the tenant improvement allowance enough?”, and “Is a maintenance program included in your lease?”

Professional Commercial Space Planning in Indianapolis

Call BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 to learn more about planning a new commercial space for your business. We provide full-service commercial space planning and permitting services in Indianapolis, and throughout Central Indiana for all businesses and industries. Whether you’ve already moved into a new space or still searching for one, our commercial construction management team has what it takes to meet your unique specifications. Call our office today to discuss your commercial space planning and tenant improvement needs, today.